The 90-foot-long 1:80 scale detailed model, made of stainless steel, has four functions: (1) a table of contents for satellite exhibits (numbers on the large model are keyed to nearby exhibits); (2) a 3D structural diagram of the Golden Gate Bridge, differentiating structural from nonstructural components; (3) a big “draw” to beckon visitors to the outdoor exhibition area; (4) a beautiful sculpture in its own right.

This exhibit is currently on hold pending cut-through of planned Battery Exhibit site area.

An early concept rendering shows that a solid base was considered to help show the elevation of the floor of the SF bay and how the model would align with the actual view of the Bridge.

Drawing by EHDD Architects

This revised version thins out the support stands so not to block the views within the Battery area. In addition, the International orange color is removed from the model to better show the underlying structure.

Drawing by EHDD Architects

Professor Maria Garlock holds one of the early Bridge model prototypes used to help determine the size and level of detail required for this design.

Sylvester Black, one of the principal designers of the 1:80 scale model is shown here with a couple of the Bridge deck models, one in plastics, the other in metal.

(Left to right) Denis Mulligan, Project PI and General Manager, is shown here going over the fabrication details of the Bridge model with Princeton University students, William Plunket and Gavin Daly (and Jorge Lee, GGBHTD Civil Engineer)

Princeton engineering student, Stephanie Chan, shown here with a wood model of the Bridge arch, used to test the design before the final pieces are produced in steel.

Funding for the project has been provided by the Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings, National Science Foundation. Dr. Al DeSena is the NSF project officer for this award. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

All images are the property of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District and cannot be re-used without its permission. Contact Mary Currie, Public Affairs Director, mcurrie@goldengate.org